Overview
- The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department identified the victim as Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova, 19, of Seal Beach, with cause of death pending.
- Casanova reportedly fell more than 500 feet near the Devils Backbone on Dec. 29, and his hiking companion reached cell service to call for help.
- Aerial teams located the 19-year-old and two other hikers during the search, but severe winds prevented hoist rescues as an air medic later confirmed all three were deceased.
- The other two victims have not been publicly named, and the sheriff’s office says all recoveries have been completed as the investigation continues.
- The U.S. Forest Service ordered a Jan. 1–7 closure of seven trails, with potential fines up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for organizations for violations.